James "Dean" Henderson Jr.

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James Henderson Obituary

James "Dean" HENDERSON, Jr. Feb. 21, 1921 - June 21, 2004 Dean passed away peacefully at Northwest Hospital on Monday, surrounded by family. Born in Seattle to James and Leonice Henderson, his childhood years were spent in Seattle and Chula Vista, CA. He graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1939, excelled as a quarterback for the University of Washington, and enlisted in the USMC in 1943. He married Muriel Capp on May 21, 1943. Their war years were spent in Barstow, CA. Upon their return, they raised their family on Queen Anne Hill, and spent glorious summers in Indianola, WA. Dean's career was dedicated to the fire equipment industry. He and Muriel retired to Whidbey Island in 1987, and later to Cristwood Retirement Center in 2003. Member of Bethany Presbyterian Church, Seattle; past president of the Indianola Beach Improvement Club; member of United Methodist Church, Langley, WA; member of Useless Bay Country Club, Langley; member of Queen Anne Lodge, No. 242, F.&A.M. With a twinkle in his eye, Dean's engaging personality put others at ease. His friends were innumerable; his commitment to family, absolute. He will be greatly missed by his wife of 61 years, Muriel; three sons, Jim (Char) of Freeland, WA, John (Sally) of Oostburg, WI, and Jeff (Joan) of Indianola a daughter, Julie (Steve) Stein of Fremont, CA; nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; and a brother David (June) Henderson of Edmonds. Visitation at Beck's Funeral Home, 405 - 5th Ave. S., Edmonds (425)771-1234 from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, June 29. A private interment will be held at Restlawn Memorial Park, Edmonds. A Memorial Celebration will be held at l:00 p.m., Wednesday, June 30 at Beck's Funeral Home. Remembrances to Second Chance, P.O. Box 596, Freeland, WA 98249, or the Indianola Beach Improvement Club, PO Box 212, Indianola, WA 98342. Semper Fi.

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Published by The Seattle Times from Jun. 25 to Jun. 26, 2004.

Memories and Condolences
for James Henderson

7 Entries

Kathy Henderson

July 8, 2004

I first met Dean (and the rest of the Seattle Hendersons, Betty Robinson and Evna and Ray Roe) in 1993. I was in Seattle for a work conference, and when I told my Grandma Elma I was going, she said, "Oh, you must meet Dean and David and their spouses/family".

I wasn't sure what to expect upon meeting that side of our family, but I was greeted with such warmth and friendliness. I felt so comfortable and had an immediate kinship which soon grew into deep love for Dean and Muriel as well as the others.

What was so readily apparent was the deep love that Dean had for all things family, and especially for God. He had such a deep, abiding and REAL faith. He was such a warm and loving person. His enthusiasm was unbridled and infectious.

It was during that first trip to Seattle in 1993 that I was presented a copy of The Yellowstone Story. I decided 2 summers ago, to go to Yellowstone for the first time. I invited all my family members to join me if they could, including Dean and Muriel. It wasn't a good time for them to go (Jim was mowing hay on Whidby, and they were in the midst of their move), but they decided to take me up on my invitation.

Dean told me several times since then that the trip to Yellowstone was the trip of a lifetime, from meeting Lee Whittlesey, Yellowstone National Park historian, and from sharing the trip with Muriel and Jim, and me.

We learned more about the Henderson's role in Yellowstone and Lee learned about the Hendersons primarily from Dean, who knew so much about our ancestors.

I shall never forget Dean. Love to you, especially, Muriel. You're everpresent in my thoughts.

Ron Lindenberg

July 1, 2004

Dean was a business associate for 40 years who became a close friend. He always was ready to help me in the business. We shared a interest in Yellowstone which meant very much to him and his family.

Debbie Neeleman (Henderson)

June 28, 2004

My husband Jim and I had the pleasure of meeting Dean and all of our gracious Henderson family years ago while visiting Washington. You gave us a great party to welcome us as family. I remember how much Dean enjoyed having all of his family around him and how proud he was of each of you as he introduced us to you. Dean's commitment to family was evident in the way that he treasured our family history so that future generations could share in the Henderson legacy. We are saddened that our time with Dean has been cut short, but we rejoice in knowing that Dean is with his Savior, Jesus, and that those who trust in Christ will be reunited with him again. We love you Dean & Muriel, thank you for loving us.

Conor Heathcote

June 28, 2004

I had only met Dean once before several years ago. However, I have heard many of the stories about this amazing man who is so very special to my family. God bless you, Dean.

Boat Trip; "Pretty Penny" Summer 1961

Dean Heathcote

June 26, 2004

Photo taken July 1961, was from my childhood scapbook. I was 12 years old - my first Boat Trip. Dad and I went with Dean Henderson and son Jim, on the chartered boat "Pretty Penny" We had a fantastic time.

Dean Heathcote

June 26, 2004

Uncle Dean was a most special man to me. He and my father were such great friends. As a young boy I loved to go to Indianola with my family to visit Uncle Dean and his family. He was bigger than life - always at the center of our fun and excitement. I adored him. Dad once told me, if any thing ever happened…, Uncle Dean would be there to take care of me, and as a reminder of his friendship and all he has meant to our family, I was given his name. Thank you Uncle Dean. I will never forget you, your love for my family, and the gift of carrying your name. Say Hi to Dad for me.

Dean Heathcote

Tiffany McClure (Henderson)

June 25, 2004

I have so many wonderful memories of my Papa. The many years spent growing up with he and my Grandma always around will be cherished forever. I love you Papa and will miss you so much!!! All my love, Tiffany

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